Rotary announces Grand Marshal for June 29 Not Quite Independence Day parade
June 19, 2024 | By Dan McKibben 
Set off at the State Office Complex, the NQID fireworks are visible throughout the downtown. File photo by Gordon Miller
Waterbury Rotary’s Not Quite Independence Day planning team announces the Grand Marshal for this year’s parade to be held Saturday, June 29, will be Dave Morse, owner of Dave’s Community Fitness.
The theme of the 2024 NQID festivities is “Celebration of Sports” in Waterbury.
We are very happy to recognize Dave with this honor for his many contributions to local sports – including his own as a Harwood athlete – and the support he has provided to athletes of all ages in our community.
It’s not too late to sign up to have entry in this year’s NQID parade. All local teams, athletes, and organizations are invited to participate in the parade. More information about the parade and how to register your group to participate can be found at waterburyvtrotary.org.
The day’s events begin at 3 p.m. at Rusty Parker Memorial Park with the Green Mountain Mile foot race at 3:45 p.m. beginning at the Ice Center followed by the parade at 4 p.m., food and games from 5 p.m. until dusk, a concert starting at 6 p.m. and fireworks around 9 p.m. (see more details below)
Dave Morse, owner of Dave's Community Fitness, is grand marshal for the 2024 Waterbury Not Quite Independence Day parade. Photo by John Malter
Saluting Dave Morse
In 2002, Waterbury native Dave Morse opened Dave's Community Fitness, an all-inclusive community-oriented health and fitness facility at 35 Commercial Drive, just over the Waterbury town line in Moretown. Now at the start of its third decade, Dave's is still going strong.
This story actually began long long ago. Dave grew up in Waterbury, playing sports from a very young age and enjoying a life full of outdoor activities. The years rolled by, and competitive sports anchored his love for staying active and fit. That love has continued throughout his life to this day.
Dave graduated from Harwood Union, and then headed to Lyndon State College, graduating in 1977 with honors and a bachelor’s degree in Community Recreation Administration. In 1980, he moved to Southern California and 10 years later he went back to school at the University of California San Diego and received professional certifications in fitness instruction and health management. Immediately following his certifications, Dave went to work at a brand new gym, Premier, Athletic and Squash Club. Dave managed that facility for the next 10 years.
In 2001 due to family issues, Dave returned to Waterbury. Looking to continue in the fitness industry, he opened his own gym, originally called Phyz Ed Fitness, which became Dave's Community Fitness.
“I wanted to bring something special back to the community that raised me, something that could help people to be healthier and more active, in a facility that was well-equipped, and had a comfortable inviting atmosphere," he said.
Dave shared his thoughts on being chosen as the NQID Grand Marshal this year: “Through all the trials and tribulations that come with running a small business in a small town, our members have always been there to support us year after year. The challenges have always been met and overcome by the close connections between members, staff, and myself as owner. It is the stuff that dreams are made of for a small-town boy who returned after 20 years away and who thanks his lucky stars for a life well-lived. Happy NQID, everyone, and thanks for all the support!”
June 29 | Not Quite Independence Day schedule
Photo by Lisa Scagliotti
Details on the full NQID schedule including parade and Green Mountain Mile entry applications and rules, etc. are online on the Waterbury Rotary Club website.
3 p.m. Food and beer concessions open at Rusty Parker Memorial Park.
3:30 p.m. Traffic on South Main Street will be closed. Parking near Rusty Parker will be restricted as well.
3:45 p.m. Green Mountain Mile foot race begins near the Ice Center and finishes at Stowe Street. Register for the race by mail using this application (must be received by June 27) or in person at Brookside Primary School, 5-7 p.m. on Friday, June 28. Race day registration closes at the Ice Center at 3:30 p.m. ($10 for adults, $5 for ages 14 and under).
4 p.m. NQID parade begins at the south entrance to the State Office Complex, ending near Dac Rowe Park.
5 p.m. - Activities at Rusty Parker Memorial Park including games for kids, food, drink and other vendors. ($5 donation for entry suggested)
5:30 p.m. - Parade award winners announced
6 p.m. - Concert by The Tim Brick Band, ending shortly before fireworks.
Approximately 9 p.m. - Fireworks set off behind the State Office Complex (stay behind the signs). Parking is free at the complex; exit at Park Row to go north and at State Drive to go south.
Dan McKibben is a member of the Waterbury Rotary Club.